Operation Treacle has been launched by police in Rochdale in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire night. Officers will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in hotspots to reassure the public, deter troublemakers and to combat underage drinking. We'll have live updates here ...

Operation Treacle has been launched by police in Rochdale in the run up to Halloween and Bonfire night. Officers will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in hotspots to reassure the public, deter troublemakers and to combat underage drinking.

Alcohol will be confiscated and test purchases will be carried out at licensed premises, with adults caught buying alcohol for children prosecuted.

The campaign is designed to highlight the dangers and possible consequences of antisocial behaviour, criminal damage and the misuse of fireworks.

Police will be working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, the council, Health and Safety Executive and Transport for Greater Manchester.

Checks will be conducted with trading standards to ensure that fireworks are being sold legally, with the police and fire crews warning young people of the dangers of playing with fireworks, deliberately starting fires and making hoax calls to the emergency services.

Antisocial behaviour such as throwing flour and eggs, criminal damage, setting bins on fire and misuse of fireworks will be rewarded with penalties, which could include an £80 fine, arrest and criminal conviction.

Reporter Katie Storey is joining the operation tonight - follow her updates in the live blog below ...

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